Ferruccio Lamborghini started Automobili Lamborghini in 1963 because “the others weren’t good enough.”

Already a very successful businessman, Lamborghini decided that he would now build a formidable competitor to Ferrari. Considered crazy by friends and family, Lamborghini had the resources – but more to the point…motivation. The company’s destiny was set after Ferruccio was told by Enzo Ferrari that he could only drive tractors – the basis of Lamborghini’s fortune. It is probably safe to say that Ferrari’s arrogance and condescension towards him was a major catalyst to the launch of Automobili Lamborghini. Lamborghini would now build and drive his own sports cars.

To review the beautiful examples of this company is like visiting the Louvre for sports cars all designed by one vision-filled master – Lamborghini. His vision for superior excellence in sports cars has long driven the company to innovate in ways that becomes the true envy of all others in the automotive industry. True enthusiasts of sports cars would agree that the vehicles are not always intended to be used as “daily drivers.” The advent of the Lamborghini Gallardo (pronounced guy-ar-do) in 2003 changed that forever. The goal of the design and engineering team was to create a vehicle perfectly suitable for both a long road trip and a day hugging s-curves on a race track like Road Atlanta.

Although Audi currently owns the House of the Raging Bull (enthusiasts’ nickname for Lamborghini), the company really stands on its own. They do use some Audi components that offer conveniences to the driver – such as the entertainment control panel. This is the only area of this vehicle that will resemble anything from the German parent company. The entertainment console includes a very strong stereo that features AM/FM, CD and satellite radio as well as navigation and rear camera.

Everything else screams of the individuality long recognized as a key ingredient to the Italian automaker’s success, resulting in the continued, undeniable mystique surrounding these cars. As you slide into the cockpit of either the Coupe or the Spyder (convertible), you will quickly realize that this is not just a superior performance sports car, but luxury abounds as well. There is amazing attention to detail in color-matching two-tone leather, perfectly spaced “baseball” stitching (certain models) and so much more. No cup-holders. There is not even an after-market feature for it. But, with the exhilarating power of the Gallardo at your disposal – you won’t need that morning cappuccino to wake you up anymore. First gear takes care of that.

Speaking of speed, the Gallardo SE boasts 520bhp – which, considering how much of a raging bull this amazing vehicle is, bhp should stand for Bullish Horse Power. To say the Gallardo is fast is like saying the Pope is Catholic. While no one would question how Catholic the Pope is, the answer to the question ‘how fast is the Gallardo?’ does beg to be answered by each and every pilot who sits behind the wheel.

If you have the means to acquire it, you’ll love how this incredible, eye-catching model will garner you rock-star attention wherever you go. With celebrity Lamborghini owners ranging from Nicholas Cage to rapper Nelly, Lamborghini is the definitive A-list celebrity of the automotive world. Even if you don’t have the deep pockets to join the exclusive circle of Lamborghini owners, you can still get access to the cars by joining one of the driving clubs available around the world. You won’t be able to boast ownership, but no one asks if it’s yours when you pull up to valet park. If you’re searching for the height of speed, style and luxury, the Lamborghini Gallardo is just the place to find it.

Where to find it:
Lamborghini Gallardo SE or Spyder
Priced from $194,000
www.Lamborghini.com

A day on the track in your own Lamborghini – priceless.

Written by, Tony May
Founder – Lux Life International, Inc.